House Bill No. HLS 25RS-649 seeks to reform the operations of the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) by introducing a new role, the "assistant secretary for project delivery," and enhancing project oversight mechanisms. The bill establishes regulations that prohibit financing employees through the Transportation Trust Fund and restrict the inclusion of overhead costs in the capital budget. It emphasizes transparency in project prioritization and mandates the publication of project statuses and justifications for unexpended allotments. Additionally, the bill modifies the construction program submission process, allowing for legislative additions of projects that have been excluded for more than one fiscal year.

The legislation also streamlines project management by transferring certain responsibilities from the chief engineer to the assistant secretary for project delivery, including the oversight of utility permits and fees. It reduces the warranty period for construction contracts from three years to one year and encourages the use of third-party contracts for highway maintenance. The bill mandates annual reporting on project statuses and requires the department to consult with Louisiana Economic Development to align project priorities with economic goals. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the efficiency, accountability, and public engagement of the DOTD's operations while ensuring legislative oversight remains intact.

Statutes affected:
HB556 Original:
HB556 Engrossed:
HB556 Reengrossed: